Chocolate + hummus?!

Say what?

Typically I’m on board with all things chocolate.  But the combination of chickpeas and chocolate didn’t quite bode well with me.  However the idea of satisfying my sweet tooth, getting a boost of protein and fiber, and keeping it low in calories did.

Plus, this stuff is popping up all over the place.  And not just the chocolate variety – but all sorts of dessert-inspired hummus.  I even saw a snickerdoodle-flavored one that was calling my name.  So, I knew there had to be something to it.  And that meant that I just had to make it to see what all the fuss was about.

The great thing about this stuff is that there are numerous ways to enjoy it.  Eat it with some pretzels.  Spread it on some bread.  Dip pita chips or harder fruit, like apple slices, into it.  Eat it with a spoon.  Seriously.  So. Many. Ways.

I honestly don’t think I can eat an apple any other way again.

Plus, this stuff is so good I kind of want to share it with everyone.

So, instead of bringing vegetables and traditional hummus to your next party or gathering, treat this like a fruit dip and serve it with strawberries, apple slices, and pretzels.  It goes over very well with the kiddos – I  mean, c’mon, it’s chocolate, but really it’s this super healthy, protein-packed dip, AND it fits almost every kind of diet, so it’s pretty party friendly.

Winning.

On top of all this great stuff?  It takes like five minutes to make.  All you need is a food processor.  Dump all the ingredients in it, and bam.  Chocolate hummus.

Chocolate Hummus

yields approximately 1 cup * serving size: 1/4 c. * calories: 165 * fat: 1.7 g. * carbs: 35.2g * fiber: 7.3g * sugar: 13.8g * protein: 6.4g * WW points: 4

• 1 (15 oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 3 tbsp. honey
• 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
• 4 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder

Place all of the ingredients into a food process and blend until smooth.  You can add water if you prefer your texture a bit runnier, but I liked the thickness of this dip.